WHY DO I NEED JAW SURGERY / ORTHOGNATHIC SURGERY?

Orthognathic surgery is needed when the top and bottom jaws don’t align correctly and/or teeth don’t adequately fit within the jaw. Teeth are straightened with orthodontics, and corrective jaw surgery repositions misaligned jaws. This not only improves facial appearance, but also ensures that teeth meet correctly and function properly. A properly aligned jaw improves chewing ability, speech, breathing, sleep apnea, and periodontal health.

People who can benefit from orthognathic surgery include those with an improper bite or jaws that are positioned incorrectly. Jaw growth is a gradual process and, in some instances, the upper and lower jaws may grow at different rates. The result can be a multitude of problems that can affect chewing function, speech, long-term oral health, and appearance. Injury to the jaw and birth defects may also affect jaw alignment. Orthodontics alone can correct bite problems if only the teeth are involved, but orthognathic surgery may be required if the jaws also need repositioning.